30. June 2026, 09:15 o'Clock
Switzerland
Article: New intermodal solution for transport to Switzerland
DB Cargo BTT rapidly establishes a flexible alternative for container transport
A swift response to a changing market environment
The containers are ready, the transport schedules are in place – yet suddenly key components are missing from the system.
This was precisely the situation that emerged towards the end of 2025. It soon became clear that key market conditions were set to change fundamentally – with immediate implications for existing intermodal transport chains: the container wagons previously used for transport to Switzerland were no longer available. This created an urgent need for action for many freight forwarders. Stable supply chains are indispensable, particularly in the chemical industry, as production processes must not be disrupted. What was needed were short-term solutions that would take effect immediately – and integrate seamlessly into existing transport structures.
DB Cargo BTT delivers precisely this solution. The unit of DB Cargo Liquids & Bulk specialising in dangerous goods and combined transport has developed a viable alternative for container transport to Switzerland within just three months. With a clear concept, its own equipment and high operational flexibility, it has been ensuring stable transport services since the start of the year – exactly where the market needed new solutions at short notice.
Wagon pool as the key to the solution
One factor was crucial in ensuring that the new concept could quickly become a reality: the availability of the right equipment. Whilst short-term capacity was no longer available on the market to the usual extent, DB Cargo BTT was able to draw on two- and four-axle container wagons – comprising DB Cargo BTT’s own equipment as well as additional wagons from the DB Cargo network. This wagon pool makes all the difference: services can be organised at short notice and reliably secured.
Container wagons were specifically repositioned and consolidated in the Basel area. An additional buffer track ensures that wagons are available at all times – even when transport requirements arise at short notice.
“Our advantage clearly lies in our own fleet of container wagons. This enables us to react quickly and offer our customers reliable solutions even in a volatile environment.”
Marco Borgwardt, Head of Sales and Solution Design Multi-Modal at DB Cargo BTT
From Basel directly to the siding
Operationally, too, the solution follows a clear principle: short distances, quick transfers, and smooth processes. The containers arrive in Basel via intermodal transport, single-wagon transport or by lorry. DB Cargo BTT provides the necessary on-site transhipment facilities – from rail to rail and from road to rail. Full flexibility, with no additional interfaces and no unnecessary delays.
Container wagons are ready for transport to Switzerland.
From there, the containers are transported onwards on the provided wagons to various private sidings in Switzerland – for example to Schweizerhalle, Monthey or Visp.In principle, any location connected to the rail network can be reached.
The efficiency of the new concept is clear: DB Cargo BTT moves around 100 containers by rail between Germany and Switzerland every month. The structure is deliberately designed to grow flexibly as demand increases.
Added value for freight forwarders and chemical industry customers
For many market players, the solution opens up new opportunities – particularly for freight forwarders who wish to continue offering sustainable rail transport to Switzerland. They can utilise the provided wagon capacity and infrastructure instead of having to set up their own costly solutions.
At the same time, the solution enables transport to remain on rail, avoiding a shift to road.This is a decisive advantage, particularly for the chemical industry: rail is considered a more sustainable and safer mode of transport, especially when transporting sensitive and dangerous goods. Furthermore, existing supply chains remain stable and production processes remain predictable.
Stability in a dynamic environment
What began as a rapid response to changing conditions is now a viable solution for the market. DB Cargo BTT demonstrates how stable and efficient transport operations can be established even under significant time pressure – with the right equipment, clear processes and operational strength.
For customers, one thing matters above all else: container transport to Switzerland remains possible, predictable and by rail. And this ensures that supply chains remain stable – even in a dynamic market environment.
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